A Statistical Survey of Major Cutaneous Malignant Tumors for the Last 10 Years (2000~2010, North-east Gyeonggido Province)

Hwang, Jong Ik; Kim, Hee Su; Park, Hoon; Kim, Jin Wou; Yu, Dong Soo

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Major cutaneous malignant tumors (MCMT) including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and malignant melanoma (MM) result from multifactorial causes such as environmental and host factors. In particular, ultraviolet radiation (UVR) comprised of environmental factors is estimated to be one of the most important risk factors for MCMT.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to analyze recent changes in the incidence of MCMT in patients from the north-east area of gyeonggido, and compare that incidence with data previously reported.
METHODS
We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 212 patients diagnosed as MCMT at the Department of Dermatology at the Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital during the last 10 years.
RESULTS
The average annual incidence of MCMT was 0.3% and it seemed to increase. Among the 212 cases of malignant tumors, the most common malignant tumor was BCC (62.7%). The incidence of SCC and MM were 25% and 12.3%, respectively. The mean age of patients was 68.4+/-14.15 years for those with MCMT; 66.8 y in BCC, 74.5 y in SCC and 64.5 y in MM. The ratio of men to women was 0.72:1. Compared with the incidence of MCMT in other provinces, the north-east portion of Gyeonggido (0.3%) had a high incidence of MCMT.
CONCLUSION
High altitude may increase the amount of UVR exposure and influence the development of cutaneous malignant tumors. Individual behaviors including outdoor activity and use of sun blocks are important to the development of major cutaneous tumors and should not be ignored.